Salvation Army teams distribute essential supplies to India's flood victims

As heavy monsoon rains cause extensive flooding and landslides throughout the Indian states of Assam and Bihar, Salvation Army relief teams are busy distributing essential supplies.

Official sources report that flooding in these two most severely affected states has killed 932 people and displaced 1.3 million. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reports that the floods have damaged 510,420 houses in Bihar and caused extensive crop damage, with 1.38 million hectares of crops affected in that region alone.

As the scale of the disaster became known, a decision was taken by Salvation Army leaders in northern India to release all available reserves immediately in order to launch an emergency response. Captain Dilip Singh (Territorial Social and Legal Secretary) and Major Chotka Hembrom (District Officer for Bihar) drafted plans to supply emergency rations to 4,000 people. Each ration pack contains a week's supply of rice, dal, potato, onions, candles and matches. Plans were also put in place to provide 2,000 people (1,000 men and 1,000 women) with new clothing.

Implementing such a response posed great challenges, not only in terms of logistical difficulties but also because of security concerns. Commissioner Paulose Yohannan, commander of The Salvation Army's India Northern Territory, reports: ‘Bihar is a challenging area in which to work. Even as government workers were distributing relief supplies, the crowds become violent. Sadly, three people were killed in the struggles. Because of this we took extra care. Seeking official assistance from Government authorities, we were able to organise a peaceful distribution to the most needy people. With support from the local police force, distributions were accomplished without incident. We thank God for the opportunity we received to assist people in this way. The Government authorities and people of Bihar are well pleased.'

Although this short-term relief programme has been of great help, the longer-term needs of the population are huge. Colonel N. J. Vijayalakshmi, The Salvation Army’s National Emergency Consultant for India, says, 'We are concerned to see the number of families still sheltering under plastic sheeting. Instead of providing temporary shelter we are appealing for resources to construct proper houses. If funds can be secured, The Salvation Army hopes to provide reconstruction materials for up to 1,000 families.'